Spot the difference

Most people experience acne at some point in their life: caused by hair follicles becoming blocked with oil and dead skin cells, bacteria then grow in the follicle, resulting in inflammation.

However, as much as skin is not the same from person to person, not all acne is the same either — so there is no one treatment for everyone.

Here are some suggestions to promote good skin health and reduce acne.

WASH YOUR FACE TWICE A DAY

Gently wash your face with a specially formulated acne cleanser as part of your skin care routine.

Follow cleanser instructions and use lukewarm water, before finishing by patting your face dry with a soft towel.

EXFOLIATE

Remove excess dry and dead skin cells by exfoliating.

You can use a mask or lotion once or twice a week, or scrubs or a brush three to four times a week.

APPLY AN ACNE-FIGHTING AGENT

Benzoyl peroxide creams, gels and lotions can help fight mild acne by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria.

Before using the product for the first time, do an allergy check three days prior.

APPLY A MOISTURISER

If your skin is overly dry, it may be compensating by overproducing oil, which in turn produces breakouts.

Use a moisturiser labelled ‘lightweight’ that is formulated to not cause blocked pores.

USE NON-COMEDOGENIC MAKE-UP

The wrong cosmetics can trigger a breakout. Dermatologists recommend make-up with salicylic acid, as well as oil-free based make-up.

Avoid heavy liquid foundations that can trap dirt and block pores, and wash your make-up brushes and sponges regularly as part of your beauty routine.

Ensure to remove make-up at the end of each day.

DON’T PICK AT YOUR SKIN

It is hard to avoid the temptation when confronted by a bulbous pimple, but by squeezing or picking at it you can expose the surrounding pores and hair follicles to more bacteria, which can result in an even bigger acne outbreak.

RELAX

There have been connections between stress and acne.

If you’re dealing with a stressful event or situation, look for healthy ways to de-stress, including exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, meditating and getting plenty of sleep.

DIET

Studies have shown that foods high in fat, sugar or salt — like takeaway meals, for example — can exacerbate acne.

As your largest body organ, it’s important you look after the skin with healthy dietary choices.

This means having regular meals, and making sure they include lots of fruit, vegetables and wholegrains.

If you’ve tried all types of treatments for your acne and nothing works, make an appointment with a dermatologist — they may prescribe medications that will help in clearing your skin.